Student-faculty (S-F) interactions that are conducive to students’ learning can help reduce the retention and graduation gaps in higher education, especially for college students from underrepresented and underprivileged backgrounds. The aim of the study was to explore students’ perceptions of their interactions with faculty, and the subjective impact of these interactions on students’ academic and personal life. We analyzed qualitative data from a larger study with the goal of providing best practice models to support students experiencing displacement and food insecurity. Through purposive sampling techniques, 53 students from a diverse public university were recruited. Recruitment strategies focused on students who were likely to be facing academic, personal, and/or financial challenges that may affect their academic performance. Students were interviewed three to four times over a four to six-month period, using semi-structured interview guides. Our multidisciplinary team analyzed data thematically in team-based coding sessions using an online software. We identified four themes for faculty practices: (1) Creating Pedagogical Space, (2) Being Inclusive and Aware, (3) Being Engaged and Engaging Students, (4) Doing More Than Teaching. Based on students’ perspectives, these practices lead to supportive and responsive S-F relationships that facilitate learning and success. The findings have implications related to how faculty can encourage caring S-F relationships and create conducive learning environments where students can thrive, especially during times of crisis.

Through a survey of more than 200 US academic science librarians, we investigated the perceived value of subject specialization; looked for trends toward or away from science subject specialization; and analyzed predictions about the future of science liaison librarianship. Results showed that science librarians perceive subject specialization positively and predict it will continue to be necessary in the future. They also perceive that liaison relationships will remain crucial. While functional roles appear to be growing, they were not seen as replacing traditional subject responsibilities. Results suggest a shift toward a more generalist approach; however, additional research is needed before stating this conclusively.

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